Mineral 1.0: M

Mineral 1.0

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OxideMagnetite

Fe₃O₄

Most distinguishing features:
Highly magnetic. Habit and colour are also indicators.
Industrial/economical uses:
Mined for iron. Crushed magnetite also been used as aggregate to make high-density concrete for specialized applications, such as nuclear reactors.

CarbonateMalachite

Cu₂(CO)₃(OH)₂

Most distinguishing features:
Colour is primary indicator, as well as habit.
Industrial/economical uses:
Used as a minor ore of copper and also has ornamental uses due to vivid green colour.

SulfideMarcasite

FeS₂

Most distinguishing features:
Bronze-yellow colour and habit are indicative. Streak is also helpful.
Industrial/economical uses:
Can be used as source of sulfur and iron, but not normally economically valuable.

SulfideMolybdenite

MoS₂

Most distinguishing features:
Colour is best indicator. Greasy feel and luster are good as well, as is its relative softness.
Industrial/economical uses:
Primary ore of which molybdenum is mined. Usually alloyed with iron.

SilicateMuscovite

KAl₂(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂

Most distinguishing features:
Colour and habit are best indicators.
Industrial/economical uses:
Used in the electronics industry in the manufacture of capacitors, transistors, insulators and certain window types. Also used as a filler in building materials.